Canadian Forest Service Publications
FERNS: The Forest Ecosystem Research Network of Sites. 2006. Mills, J.D. Pages 215-221 in L.C. Irland, A.E. Camp, J.C. Brissette, and Z.R. Donehew Long-term silvicultural and ecological studies: results for science and management. Yale University, School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Global Institute of Sustainable Forestry, New Haven, CT, GISF Research Paper 5.
Year: 2006
Issued by: Pacific Forestry Centre
Catalog ID: 26331
Language: English
Availability: PDF (download)
Abstract
The Canadian Forest Ecosystem Network of Sites (FERNS), initiated in 1997, has networked twenty-two interdisciplinary forest research installations across Canada. Dozens of world-class studies and data banks are associated with each installation. Originally, FERNS was designed to help scientists and other professionals assess the impacts of forestry practices on forest ecology, and to encourage knowledge transfer between scientists. Long-term data collected on other forestry-related topics such as climate, water, moisture, nutrients, and ecosystems provides opportunities to further synthesize knowledge. FERNS is strategically positioned to contribute basic scientific information to emerging national and international initiatives such as the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers' National Forest Information System (NFIS), the climate change programs, and Criteria and Indicators policy, and biodiversity. FERNS also provides a timely opportunity to improve communications between disciplines, policy makers, the public, and forest practitioners.